Custody trial for rapper 50 Cent

The rapper's real name is Curtis Jackson

Rap star 50 Cent is to face his former partner in court to settle a long-running custody battle over their son.

New York family court judge David Freundlich set a trial date of 22 October for the pair to resolve their dispute over 11-year-old Marquise.

The rapper has been granted weekend visitation rights until the trial.

His ex-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins has alleged the star was behind a fire that destroyed the mansion where she and their son were living, which he denies.

'Happy'

Six people, including Ms Tompkins and Marquise, were treated for smoke inhalation after the blaze on 30 May.

The fire remains under investigation by the arson squad, while 50 Cent took legal action against his former partner, accusing her of defamation.

The judge also issued a protection order against the musician, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, barring him from any contact with Ms Tompkins.

Outside the courthouse, the rapper welcomed the judge's decision to allow him to see his son two weekends per month, saying: "I'm happy I get a chance to see him".

Ms Tompkins said: "My son doesn't want every other weekend".

The child will be dropped off at a police station in the Queens area of New York on Friday evenings, to be picked up by the rap star's driver.

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